Give the kids an early holiday gift by taking them to Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, FL where this time of year there is even more to do than usual, especially in the evenings.

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party — Photo courtesy of Walt Disney World Resorts

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party returns to the Magic Kingdom for 20 select, festive evenings during November and December 2012. These after-hours events, from 7:00pm - midnight, are full of lively stage shows including favorite Disney characters, spectacular fireworks and Mickey's Once Upon A Christmastime Parade featuring Santa Claus.

The opportunity to view the Cinderella castle decked out in over 200,000 lights and snowfall on Main Street U.S.A. is not to be missed. Attendees also receive complimentary hot cocoa and cookies, along with special access to popular Magic Kingdom rides. Translation: shorter lines.

For a fun evening that's also a learning experience, head over to Epcot theme park's Holidays Around the World event, lasting from late November through December 2012. Wander through the World Showcase and listen to various storytellers share holiday tales from their homelands. The Candlelight Processional takes place nightly during the international celebration, featuring celebrity readings of the Christmas story accompanied by a 50-piece orchestra. Rumor has it that Neil Patrick Harris and Gary Sinise are on the list to appear this year.

Holidays Around The World — Photo courtesy of Walt Disney World Resort

To guarantee seating at the Candlelight Processional, reserve a Candlelight Dining Package which also includes lunch or dinner and VIP viewing of IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth, the laser, light and fireworks display that closes out the park each night.

Avoid disappointing the little ones by purchasing tickets to these holiday extravaganzas in advance as they do sell out. Both events require separate tickets in addition to regular park entry.